BISHOP'S CORNER

Churches may reopen for private prayer only, in compliance with public health guidelines, May 13

Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., has issued instructions for the reopening of churches in the Diocese of Trenton for private prayer only, following all public health guidelines, beginning May 13, the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima or following, once pastors determine they can safely do so.

The ‘new now’ is not the ‘new normal’ for those who seek God’s grace

When all the restrictions concerning COVID-19 are lifted – and they will be – will I have to return to Mass? Will I have to go to Confession? Will I be able to receive the Eucharist?  

Current restrictions must remain, but we begin to plan for our return to church

National health experts and scientists continue to express grave concerns that the spread of COVID-19 is far from over. While they agree that mitigation and the other precautions that have been taken throughout the country seem effective, they are urging people not to lower their guard.

Bishop’s reflection for the reconsecration of the U.S. to Mary, Mother of the Church

As the Lord Jesus was dying on the Cross, he looked down and saw his Beloved Mother standing next to John, his Beloved Disciple. In his final moments, their eyes met, and Jesus spoke ...

Bishop O’Connell’s homily for the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker

The coronavirus pandemic that has gripped most of the world is a crisis on so many levels that very few parts of our society have been spared its impact.

Patient suffering and sacrifice are what the Lord asks of us

The temporary closure of churches to the faithful in the Diocese of Trenton and its effects on the public celebration of Mass and Sacraments in their usual ritual form were the most difficult and painful decisions I have ever made.

Bishop O’Connell on Divine Mercy Sunday: ‘Jesus, I Trust in You'

“Mercy is the love freely shown to us by God, who first reveals himself to us and makes his presence known and felt.”

Bishop O’Connell’s homily for the Easter Vigil

Jesus of Nazareth lived most of his life in obscurity without much notoriety or attention paid to him. The Gospels tell us about his birth in Bethlehem and, later, about his appearance in the temple at age twelve. 

'We will always be an Easter people,' Bishop says in podcast, video

In recorded podcast and video messages, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., extended an Easter greeting during which he offered words of assurance as faithful of the Diocese and beyond navigate the start of the Easter season during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Crucifix the most powerful reminder of love, Bishop says in Good Friday message

A crucifix or cross hangs somewhere in almost every Catholic home, in every Catholic school and institution.  The crucifix or cross is the central and most widely known symbol of Christianity and has been for over 2,000 years. 

Bishop O’Connell’s homily for Holy Thursday

The Thursday before Easter is called “Holy.” Some Christian communities use the expression “Maundy” as their reference, a term less familiar to Catholics – coming from French and Latin roots – meaning “commanded.”

Bishop shares homily for Monday of Holy Week

At another time, the priests of the Diocese of Trenton would gather around their bishop, in the presence of the faithful, on Monday of Holy Week, to bless and consecrate  sacramental holy oils at the Chrism Mass. 

Priests of Diocese renew commitment, pray for all impacted by virus in synchronized Mass

On the Monday of Holy Week, priests across the Diocese of Trenton celebrated Mass from their respective churches, simultaneously, with Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M.

In message, Bishop calls Palm Sunday 'the door' of a saving week

When building a house, the location of the door is a critically important part of the planning. The door is the entrance way to the rest of the house. It is the place from which a person gets a first glimpse and impression of what is inside.   

Bishop O’Connell, dozens of parishes to celebrate Holy Week and Easter liturgies via livestream

At a time when all churches in the Diocese of Trenton are closed to Mass-goers because of coronavirus restrictions, Catholics are invited to commemorate Palm Sunday and the arrival of Holy Week April 5 as a virtual experience via video livestreaming. 


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